Marilyn Manson Ends Legal Battle Against Evan Rachel Wood

Marilyn Manson, whose legal name is Brian Warner, has decided to withdraw his lawsuit against former fiancée Evan Rachel Wood, a prominent actor known for her role in Westworld. The decision, announced by both parties' legal representatives, concludes a contentious legal conflict that began in 2022 and included accusations of defamation, emotional distress, and alleged fabrication of abuse claims.

The case emerged after Manson accused Wood of making false public allegations of sexual and physical abuse during their relationship. He also claimed that Wood encouraged others to fabricate similar accusations. However, a Los Angeles County judge dismissed key elements of the lawsuit in 2022, including allegations related to a disputed FBI letter that Wood was accused of forging—a claim she denied.

Despite appealing the decision, Manson opted for a settlement earlier this year. His legal counsel stated that the rocker sought closure after years of legal battles. In the settlement, Manson agreed to cover approximately $327,000 in attorney fees for Wood. Her attorney, however, characterized the lawsuit as a failed attempt to undermine her credibility and silence her voice.

This legal resolution occurs against the backdrop of a separate criminal investigation into allegations of abuse involving Manson, which has been ongoing for nearly four years. The investigation, involving multiple unnamed women, remains unresolved. Los Angeles County prosecutors recently disclosed new evidence, signaling that a decision on potential charges may come soon.

Notably, other high-profile cases linked to Manson have drawn attention. Esme Bianco, an actor from Game of Thrones, previously accused him of abuse and criticized delays in the criminal investigation. She settled her own lawsuit against Manson in 2022.

The broader case gained significant attention in 2020, when Wood publicly alleged through social media that Manson subjected her to years of severe abuse. Their relationship, which began in 2007, ended in 2010 after a brief engagement.

Manson has consistently denied any claims of non-consensual acts. However, the controversy intensified as the

#MeToo movement spotlighted abuse survivors' voices. The legal and public disputes surrounding Manson have impacted his career in music, television, and film.

Although the lawsuit against Wood has concluded, questions remain about the criminal investigation's outcome and the broader implications of the allegations against Manson. For now, this settlement marks the end of one chapter in a complex and highly scrutinized series of legal battles.